Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche testifies before the Senate Judiciary Committee as he seeks permanent confirmation to lead the Justice Department. Multiple outlets report that Blanche appears for the hearing to be vetted for the top role after serving in an interim capacity. CBS News and Mint say Blanche uses his opening statement to highlight what he describes as successes and an effort by the Justice Department to rebuild public confidence after years of politicization. NPR characterizes the hearing as high-stakes and contentious, noting that Blanche previously won Senate confirmation earlier in President Donald Trump’s second term to serve as the Justice Department’s No. 2 official.
Other coverage focuses on concerns raised by senators. Al Jazeera reports that questions arise about Blanche’s loyalty to Trump and whether his actions support the independence of the Justice Department. Mint adds that senators’ questions include topics tied to Trump DOJ policies, the fate and handling of Epstein-related files, and issues related to Jan. 6, including pardons. Overall, sources describe a hearing marked by debate over DOJ independence and the administration’s record, alongside Blanche’s assertions about restoring trust in the department.
